Dubai Gold Souk: the visitor guide
An estimated ten tonnes of gold glitters in these covered lanes at any moment.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Quick facts | Deira · Sat to Thu ~10am to 10pm (short afternoon break), Fri from ~4pm · Free entry · Metro: Al Ras |
Why it matters
An estimated ten tonnes of gold glitters in these covered lanes at any moment, one of the world's great precious metal markets, trading since the 1940s and still where the city buys its weddings.
The visit
Window shopping is the free spectacle: 25 kilo showpieces, the Guinness record ring, and windows of Emirati, Indian and Turkish designs. Buying is a two part negotiation, the gold price is fixed globally per gram, the 'making charge' is where haggling lives.
Insider tips
Every shop is government inspected for purity, so buy on price not fear; combine with the adjoining spice souk and an abra crossing for the full old Dubai circuit; evenings glow brightest for photos.
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FAQs
Is haggling expected?
On making charges, absolutely, start well below and settle in the middle; the per gram gold rate itself is non negotiable.
Is it safe to buy real gold there?
Yes, Dubai Municipality tests purity rigorously; receipts state weight, karat and rate.